Introduction: Navigating the Competitive Landscape of Entertainment and Media
The entertainment and media sector is experiencing unprecedented competition, driven by the rapid development of technology, the changes in the regulatory framework, and the evolution of consumer expectations. These developments are creating new opportunities for the major players in the sector, from content producers to the digital platforms, from the traditional media companies to the new generation of digital companies. Artificial intelligence is driving the development of new business models for the original equipment manufacturers, IT service companies are focusing on the delivery of content, and the network operators are investing in the green technology necessary for a sustainable future. Immersive and personalised content is reshaping the market. In 2024–25, the region with the greatest potential for growth is Asia–Pacific, with the emergence of new digital consumers. Strategic deployment of automation, the Internet of Things and biometrics will be essential for companies that want to seize opportunities and respond to the changing environment.
Competitive Positioning
Full-Suite Integrators
These vendors offer comprehensive solutions across multiple segments of the entertainment and media landscape.
| Vendor | Competitive Edge | Solution Focus | Regional Focus |
|---|
| Comcast Corporation |
Extensive cable and broadband infrastructure |
Television, internet, and streaming services |
North America |
| The Walt Disney Co. |
Strong brand portfolio and content library |
Film, television, and streaming services |
Global |
| Warner Bros. Discovery Inc. |
Diverse content across multiple platforms |
Television, film, and streaming services |
Global |
Streaming Service Leaders
Focused on delivering on-demand content directly to consumers through digital platforms.
| Vendor | Competitive Edge | Solution Focus | Regional Focus |
|---|
| Netflix Inc. |
Pioneering original content production |
Streaming video on demand |
Global |
| Paramount Global |
Strong legacy content and new streaming initiatives |
Streaming and traditional media |
North America and international markets |
Broadcast and Cable Networks
These vendors operate traditional television networks and are adapting to digital trends.
| Vendor | Competitive Edge | Solution Focus | Regional Focus |
|---|
| Fox Corporation |
Strong live sports and news programming |
Broadcast television and cable networks |
North America |
Emerging Players & Regional Champions
- Rumble (USA): a video-sharing platform based on free speech. Recently, it has teamed up with independent creators and has started to offer a more varied content than the established platforms.
- In France, BlaBlaCar, the ride-hailing service, has recently started to offer entertainment by way of travel-related content and experiences, collaborating with local artists in recent months to promote special events, thus combining travel and entertainment.
- Kuaishou (China): A short video platform that has gained traction in rural areas, focusing on local content creators and live streaming, recently signed contracts with regional influencers, challenging TikTok by catering to a different demographic.
- Zee5 (India): An OTT platform that offers regional content in multiple languages, recently launched a series of original shows targeting local audiences, complementing traditional broadcasters by providing on-demand viewing options.
- Viu (Southeast Asia): A streaming service that specializes in Asian dramas and variety shows, recently expanded its library through partnerships with local production houses, challenging Netflix by focusing on regional content preferences.
Regional Trends: In 2023, there will be a noticeable trend towards localised content and niche offerings in the Entertainment and Media sector. Emerging players are leveraging on technology to offer specialised services, based on the interests of the local audience. The focus is on user-generated content and interactivity. The rise of OTT platforms is changing the way people access traditional media. Social media integration is crucial for audience engagement.
Collaborations & M&A Movements
- Disney and Netflix entered a partnership to co-produce original content, aiming to leverage Disney's IP and Netflix's distribution capabilities, thereby enhancing their competitive positioning in the streaming market.
- Amazon acquired MGM Studios for $8.45 billion to bolster its Prime Video content library, significantly increasing its market share in the streaming sector amidst growing competition from other platforms.
- Sony Music and TikTok collaborated to create a new music promotion initiative, allowing artists to reach wider audiences through TikTok's platform, thus enhancing Sony's market presence in the digital music space.
Competitive Summary Table
| Capability | Leading Players | Remarks |
|---|
| Biometric Self-Boarding |
Clear, IDEMIA |
Clear has implemented biometric self-boarding at major airports, enhancing passenger flow and reducing wait times. IDEMIA's technology is used in various venues, showcasing its adaptability in different environments. |
| AI-Powered Ops Mgmt |
IBM, Microsoft |
IBM's Watson is utilized in media analytics for real-time decision-making, while Microsoft Azure's AI tools are leveraged by streaming services for content recommendations, demonstrating strong adoption in operational efficiency. |
| Border Control |
Thales, Gemalto |
Thales has integrated advanced biometric systems in border control, improving security and processing speed. Gemalto's solutions are widely adopted in various countries, showcasing their effectiveness in enhancing border security. |
| Sustainability |
Netflix, Disney |
Netflix has committed to achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2022, leading the industry in sustainability efforts. Disney's initiatives include reducing waste and promoting renewable energy across its parks and productions. |
| Passenger Experience |
Airbnb, Booking.com |
Airbnb focuses on personalized experiences through user-generated content and reviews, enhancing customer satisfaction. Booking.com utilizes AI to tailor recommendations, significantly improving user engagement and experience. |
Conclusion: Navigating the Evolving Media Landscape
In 2023, the entertainment and media market will be highly competitive and fragmented. Both established and new players will compete for the attention of consumers across the different regional landscapes. The media and entertainment industry is changing, with more and more of the old giants adopting digital strategies to remain relevant, while new entrants are using digital innovations to disrupt the established order. Regional trends point to a growing demand for localised content, which is driving the industry to localise its offerings. The success of the entertainment and media industry in the future will depend on the success of its AI-driven analytic capabilities, automation of content delivery, and its commitment to sustainable business practices and operational agility. The industry must strategically align its resources to harness these capabilities in order to remain agile and responsive to the changing demands of consumers and the competition.
